Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – “Race in Oklahoma” is a special half-hour production from the Oklahoma Educational Television Authority (OETA) premiering on the station’s statewide broadcast network and Facebook page Thursday, June 18 at 7:30 p.m.

“Race in Oklahoma” will explore the history of racism in Oklahoma, policing, systemic issues (health, education and the economy) and look ahead to the future. This special production will be moderated by Yamiche Alcindor, White House Correspondent for PBS News-Hour. Alcindor was recently named the recipient of the Aldo Beckman Award for Overall Excellence in White House Coverage by the White House Correspondents’ Association. Guests include Laron Chapman, filmmaker; Oklahoma State Representative Regina Goodwin, Chair of the Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus; Deborah Hunter, writer and poet; Bethanie Jae, reporter for The Black Chronicle; Donnie Nero, Ed.D, retired president of Connors State College; Jabee Williams, hip-hop artist and activist.

“Our team has acted swiftly to produce “Race in Oklahoma” — a direct response to the protests which continue to take place across the state,” says Polly Anderson, OETA executive director. “My personal hope for this special is that all communities come to understand the daily and systemic racism our Black neighbors face. I encourage our viewers to approach this program with an open heart and a sense of understanding.”

The program will be available to stream through YouTube and PBS platforms beginning Friday, June 19.